Odisha seeks IR battalion for coastal security

Odisha Sun Times Bureau
Bhubaneswar, Feb 2:

Odisha has requested the Centre to sanction a special IR battalion for  coastal security in the state.

The request was made during a teleconference between Union cabinet secretary Ajit Seth and chief secretary Gokul Chandra Pati this afternoon. Senior officials of the Home department and top police officials were present during the teleconference in which gaps in security along the state’s vast, 480-km long coastline were discussed.

“We have requested the Central government to sanction an IR battalion to guard the long coast we have. We have also requested early allocation of patrol boats for the 13 marine police stations which have been opened in the state in the second phase,” additional director general (ADG), Law and Order Vinanyanand Jha told media persons after the meeting.

Jha also said the Ccentre had been requested to enhance the grant for the construction of jetties. “Rs 50 lakh has been sanctioned for every jetty whereas the construction of an average jetty involves an expenditure of Rs 3-4 crores. That is why we have asked for a hike in the sanction,” he explained.